Pet Grooming 101: Know the Proper Way to Trim Your Dog’s Nails
If you own a dog, then you know how much work it takes to make sure they’re well-loved and cared for throughout your time with them. It requires feeding and walking your puppy daily, bathing them, and cutting their nails.
Not many pet owners know the importance of trimming a dog’s nails often because once they grow longer, they could affect your dog’s habits. During instances where you don’t have enough time to do it, or you’re worried you might end up hurting your puppy for attempting to cut their nails, then you could opt for dog grooming services. That way, a professional will take over and make sure your dog’s nails remain short, harmless, and smooth at all times!
However, if you’re willing to take the challenge and take care of your dog’s nails yourself, you have to know what you’re signing up for because it’s every dog owner’s responsibility, after all! Keep reading below to find out tips on trimming your puppy’s nails the correct way.
Educate Yourself about Your Dog’s Nails
The first step to trimming your dog’s nails is to guarantee you know what you’re doing and you understand how their nails grow.
A puppy’s nails are different from human nails, so the procedure will vary because their claws contain a tissue referred to as the quick. Failing to avoid the quick and accidentally cutting it will result in bleeding, which can be quite painful for your dog. It’s difficult to determine where the quick is if your puppy tends to have dark-colored nails than if they had light-colored nails as the quick is noticeably darker.
Utilize the Proper Nail-Cutting Equipment
Besides knowing the facts about your puppy’s nails, you also have to make sure you have the proper pet supplies before you sit down with your dog and start trimming their nails. If you come unprepared, you end up wasting your time and putting off your puppy’s overdue nail cutting even longer.
Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs
Instead, you should walk to the nearest pet store and search for a pair of trusted dog nail clippers and a nail file. In case of accidents involving cutting your dog’s quick, you will need to purchase some styptic powder to help manage the wound.
Cut Your Dog’s Nail Carefully and Correctly
Now that you have everything you need and your puppy is waiting anxiously by your side, you can begin trimming their nails with care. Make sure to remain cautious and be gentle as you hold your dog’s paw and start cutting their nails one at a time. If you see they look unsure about what you’re doing, you can talk to your puppy to try and distract them and keep them from pulling their paw away from you.
When you already know where the quick is on your dog’s nails, then you should trim below the pink line. But if they have darker nails, cut below their nails where a curve forms. Avoid rushing and take your time to ensure you won’t hurt your dog.
Remember to Use a Nail File as the Last Step
After you’re done trimming your puppy’s nails successfully, you can finish it off with a nail file to keep their nails smooth and free from any sharp edges, as they can get caught up in things! If you forget to use a nail file, you could also end up getting hurt every time your dog jumps on you.
Another alternative would be to use the nail clipper—but it is often uncomfortable for your pet. As a safe and better option, which could be time-consuming yet effective nonetheless, you should stick to using a nail file as the final step of the nail cutting process.
Conclusion
When it comes to cutting your puppy’s nails, remember to educate yourself about it, utilize the proper equipment, initiate the nail cutting process properly, and don’t forget to use a nail file. However, if you don’t want to risk possibly hurting your puppy, then you can always rely on a dog groomer to handle the situation for you without a problem.
Are you looking for the best dog groomer in Marysville, WA, to watch over your dog? Earthwise Pet Supply & Grooming Marysville is a pet nutrition center and wellness spa that offers natural pet foods, treats, toys, accessories, and grooming services. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!